Why Work with an HBASC Member on Your Next Job?
ONE OF THE LARGEST INVESTMENTS YOU’LL MAKE DESERVES THE HIGHEST QUALITY SERVICE AVAILABLE
Many times, it is tempting simply to go with the lowest bidder when researching a purchase. But, when your purchase will directly impact your quality of life and is one of the largest investments you’ll make, going for the low bid may be a big mistake—the kind of mistake you will regret for many years!
You may or may not get the lowest bid from a Home Builder Association of South Carolina member, but your reasons to choose a particular contractor or vendor should go much beyond the dollar figure alone. We have compiled a list of reasons why you should work with an HBASC member for you next project.
When you choose an HBASC member, you won’t regret your choice!
CERTIFIED MASTER BUILDER
Choosing a builder or a remodeler can be difficult. That’s one reason why the Certified Master Builder of South Carolina program was created – to help you choose a professional to build or remodel your home. Certified Master Builders have a proven track record of stability, integrity and service to their buyers.
Visit the Certified Master Builder website to find a Master Builder in your area.
The award of the Certified Master Builder designation does not represent and should not be construed as a guarantee or certification of the quality or fitness of the designation holder’s work product. The HBASC’s conferral of a designation represents only the HBASC’s affirmation that the individual designation holder has completed the stipulated requirements of the respective designation program.
HOW TO CHOOSE A BUILDER OR REMODELER
If you’re planning to build a new home or remodel your current home, take some time to review our checklist of important information to consider before you select your contractor:
- Do they have a permanent business address?
- Can they provide references?
- Ask to see their state license or check online at the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR)
- Do they have current liability insurance and workers compensation coverage? It’s important to know that if you hire someone who is unlicensed and/or uninsured, you may be held liable for any injuries that occur while working on your property.
- How long have they been in business?
- Have any complaints been filed with your city building department?
- Have any civil suits been filed against the contractor with your county clerk?
- Is the Builder or Remodeler a member of your local home builders association?
- Be sure the estimates specify the total price and the method of payment, the kind and quality of materials to be used and the estimated length of time it will take to complete the work.
- Make sure you receive a complete, clearly written contract for the work to be done.
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Do not pay cash up front unless you have a signed valid contract.
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) also provides CONSUMER RESOURCESfor consumers interested in buying, building or remodeling a home.
NAHB GREEN BUILDING GUIDE
So what exactly does green building mean? What is involved and is it really THAT beneficial?
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) developed a green building program that builders can use as a guideline to building a green home or remodeling using green features. When you build green or remodel green, you also get to take advantage of tax credits.
The NAHB’s green building guide has tons of information to help you understand what green building.
MORTGAGE DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE
Did you know that more than 50 percent of South Carolina residents in foreclosure will lose their homes unnecessarily? That’s according to The Homeownership Resource Center, a division of Family Services, Inc.
If you’re facing foreclosure and need help, contact them today. Counselors can provide advice and guidance on what you need to do to secure your home and your future.
Call 1-888-320-0350 today.
HOME BUYER’S DICTIONARY
ARM? GPM? PITI? You’d have to be a cryptologist to figure out some of the terms buyers encounter during the home buying process. Our home buyer’s dictionary is designed to decode many of these terms.
Doing research on how to buy a house beforebeginning the process can greatly improve your experience and prepare you for the exciting course ahead. And with this glossary of home buying terms at your side, you can rest easy that your new home won’t get lost in translation.